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England's World Cup dream in limbo as Sophie Ecclestone monitored for shoulder injury

Akshita Patel

Sophie Ecclestone injured ahead of World Cup semis [Source: @englandcricket/X.com]Sophie Ecclestone injured ahead of World Cup semis [Source: @englandcricket/X.com]

England’s World Cup campaign has been hit with a massive scare just days before their semi-final clash against South Africa. Star spinner Sophie Ecclestone suffered a shoulder injury and is being monitored closely.

The 26-year-old injured herself while diving near the boundary rope in the very first over of the game against New Zealand.

Although she returned to bowl a few overs later, even taking the wicket of Brooke Halliday with her fourth delivery, Ecclestone was clearly in discomfort. 

Moments after grabbing the wicket, she walked off the field and didn’t return for the rest of the match.

Sophie Ecclestone is yet to be declared fit for the semi-final clash

Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, talking to the media, confirmed after the game against New Zealand that Sophie Ecclestone walked off the field as a precautionary measure since the team didn’t want to take any chances with their key player. 

"I don't know anything further but it was definitely precautionary," said England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt. We've got a huge match coming up against South Africa so we wouldn't want to risk anything now. We'll know more in a few days," Nat said.

However, Brunt didn’t confirm if Ecclestone is fit to participate in the upcoming semi-final clash against South Africa. She will likely be monitored for the next few days before England takes a final call.

Sophie Ecclestone has been in phenomenal form this tournament, taking 12 wickets in 6 matches at an impressive average of 15.33. 

Losing her ahead of the knockout stages would be a massive blow for the defending champions.

Adding to concerns, Ecclestone had previously dislocated her right shoulder during The Hundred in 2023. However, this time the injury is to her left bowling arm, making the situation even more worrying for England’s camp.

England to face South Africa in the semi-final

As things stand, England, South Africa, India, and Australia have qualified for the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025.

In the first semi-final, England will be up against South Africa at Guwahati on October 29. Subsequently, India and Australia will fight it out in the second semi-final at DY Patil Stadium on October 29.

The winners of both contests will compete in the ultimate final scheduled on November 2 at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.